Harold'Hal' J. Heffernan

Dr. Harold "Hal" J. Heffernan, 85, of Danville passed away Sunday evening surrounded by family at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Hal was born on September 28, 1926, in Ivesdale, IL, a son of James J. and Lottie Belle Heffernan. He married Mary Joann Alexander on June 13, 1953 in Seymour, IL, and she remains at their home in Danville. Hal is survived by his adoring family that includes his three sons Michael (Mary) Heffernan of Danville, Kelly (Tammy) Heffernan of Danville, and Patrick (Michelle) Heffernan of Coppell, TX; five grandchildren, Katie (Lance) Vanvekoven, Ryan, Emily, Nicholas, and Caitlin Heffernan: two step-grandchildren, Wesley and Christopher Brady; and one great-grandchild, Caryss Vanvekoven. Hal was preceded in death by his parents; James and Lottie Belle Heffernan, and two brothers; Marion and James. After joining the Army and serving his country in World War II, Hal returned home to complete his undergraduate and doctoral studies in the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois. He joined Hillcrest Large Animal Veterinary Clinic in Danville in 1953 and caring for animals and their owners remained one of "Doc" Heffernan's great passions until his passing. Aside from his veterinary practice, Hal devoted his time to his family and his faith. He is a member of St. Paul's Catholic Church in Danville and a proud supporter of Schlarman Academy. He enjoyed maintaining interests in his family farm in rural Champaign and in 2006, he and his son Michael began "Pets Plus", a pet-boarding facility in Danville. Hal was a tremendous blessing to those that were fortunate enough to know him and his legacy is one of compassion and generosity. Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Friday, December 9, 2011 at St. Paul's Catholic Church, Danville, with the Rev. Greg Nelson officiating. Visitation will be from 4-8pm, Thursday at Sunset Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home, located at 3940 N. Vermilion St in Danville, with Rosary starting at 3:30pm on Thursday at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery in Danville with military honors. Memorials may be made in Hal's name to Schlarman Academy, St. Paul's Catholic Church, or Vermilion County Animal Control. Please joins Hal's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life thru his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com